What is the economic impact of antimicrobial resistance?

The economic impact of antimicrobial resistance is significant, primarily leading to increased healthcare costs and prolonged hospital stays. When infections are resistant to standard treatments, patients often require more expensive alternative therapies, and they may experience longer recovery times due to complications. This can result in extended periods of hospitalization, additional diagnostic testing, and increased use of healthcare resources. Furthermore, the management of resistant infections often necessitates more intensive care, which translates into higher overall healthcare expenditure for both patients and healthcare systems.

The burden of antimicrobial resistance extends beyond direct healthcare costs; it can also lead to lost productivity as affected individuals may miss work or cease participation in daily activities due to illness. As resistance rates continue to rise, the overall economic implications can be profound, affecting public health budgets, insurance costs, and societal productivity levels. Therefore, the understanding of these economic dynamics is crucial for forming effective policies and strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.